Donald's Encyclopedia of Popular Music

ADVERTS, The

UK punk group formed '77. Original lineup: Tim "T.V.' Smith, vocals, guitar; Gaye Advert, bass; Howard Pickup, guitar; Laurie Driver, drums. Smith moved from Cornwall to London inspired by punk movement, formed group with Advert. First single was "One Chord Wonders' on Stiff; signed with Anchor; biggest hit "Gary Gilmore's Eyes' made UK top 20 late '77. First LP Crossing the Red Sea briefly made UK top 40 '78; Driver left, replaced by John Towe (ex-Generation X), himself replaced by Rod Latter. Tim Cross (keyboards) joined for final LP '79, group broke up. Smith did solo work, founded short-lived T.V. Smith's Explorers.